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Steven Adams Secures Three-Year, $39 Million Extension with Rockets
Veteran big man Steven Adams has secured his future with the Houston Rockets, finalizing a three-year, $39 million extension that will keep him with the team through the 2027-28 NBA season, according to ESPN.
The agreement, fully guaranteed without any player or team options, provides Houston with valuable roster flexibility. Keith Smith of Spotrac notes the contract is frontloaded, making the financial impact lighter in the later years—an important factor as the team prepares for upcoming contract extensions for younger players.
Contract Structure and Role Outlook
Adams’ salary breakdown over the course of the extension is as follows:
- 2025-26: $14.1 million
- 2026-27: $13.0 million
- 2027-28: $11.9 million
Because he was already part of the Rockets’ roster, Adams was eligible to finalize terms with the team before the 2025 NBA free agency period begins later in June.
Despite a limited stat line from last season—3.9 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game in 58 appearances—Adams’ presence on the court goes beyond the numbers. His contributions, particularly in the regular season finale and playoff matchups, were instrumental for coach Ime Udoka’s system.
Coming off a knee surgery and with close to 20,000 career minutes, Adams is expected to serve primarily as a situational backup to All-Star Alperen Sengun. However, there’s strong potential for him to log increased minutes, especially in high-leverage situations or playoff series. Last season showed glimpses of a viable “double-big” lineup with both Adams and Sengun on the floor.
Though Adams turns 32 in July, he is anticipated to be in full physical form by the start of the 2025-26 season. He had emphasized that his knee recovery, stemming from the 2023-24 campaign, was a two-year process, and now enters a phase where his body is expected to respond optimally.
A dominant 6-foot-11 presence, Adams is widely recognized for his elite rebounding, screen-setting, and interior defense. Additionally, his often-overlooked passing ability makes him a multi-dimensional asset on both ends of the court. As Houston aims to solidify its place among Western Conference contenders, Adams’ experience and steady presence on the court will play a crucial role in supporting the team’s developing young talent.
